Widespread power outages possible in southern Ontario as freezing rain rolls in

Residents are being warned by a major utility provider that the freezing rain and snow expected this weekend may not only affect travel but could also lead to widespread power outages in parts of southern Ontario.

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Alectra Utilities, which serves more than one million homes and businesses in 17 communities across the Greater Golden Horseshoe, said in a news release that the company has issued a special weather statement for parts of its service area.

According to Environment Canada, the storm could bring a significant build-up of ice capable of damaging powerlines and knocking out electricity. Alectra Utilities adds that falling tree limbs may also cause extended outages in some neighbourhoods.

The utilities company is urging residents to stay at least 10 metres away from any downed powerlines (roughly the length of a school bus) and to call 911 immediately if they encounter one.

Alectra says its System Control Centre is monitoring the forecast closely and has positioned additional crews and communications staff to respond as needed.

Customers are encouraged to charge mobile devices and prepare an emergency kit with items such as medications, flashlights, batteries, canned food, bottled water, blankets, pet supplies and key phone numbers.

Power outages can be reported by calling 1-833-ALECTRA or online at alectrautilities.com.